TOP NEWS: Uncertainty Looms Over Siya Kolisi’s Future in South African Rugby
There’s growing uncertainty surrounding the future of Springbok captain Siya Kolisi’s playing career in South Africa.
Kolisi’s planned move to the Sharks is reportedly in jeopardy after negotiations with Racing 92 hit a major snag.
The breakdown in talks between Racing 92 and the Sharks centers around a disagreement over the payment structure for the substantial fee associated with Kolisi. According to a report from RugbyPass, discussions have stalled because Racing owner Jacky Lorenzetti is insisting on full repayment of the R17 million (€726,200) he spent to sign Kolisi from the Durban-based franchise in early 2023.
THE BACK STORY
Kolisi, who joined Racing less than a year ago, made 18 appearances last season but has faced sharp criticism from Lorenzetti. Following Racing’s Top 14 playoff loss to Bordeaux, Lorenzetti accused the Springbok captain of being “out of shape and invisible.”
Despite the tension between them, Lorenzetti is reportedly unwilling to release the 33-year-old Kolisi unless the Sharks meet his financial demands in full. The Sharks are said to prefer spreading the payment over two to three years, but Lorenzetti has flatly rejected this proposal.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE SPRINGBOK CAPTAIN?
If the impasse continues, the two-time World Cup winner Kolisi could find himself back in Paris after the Rugby Championship, despite his expressed desire to return to South Africa.
Alternatively, if Kolisi is determined to return to a South African club or franchise, the Stormers or Bulls could emerge as potential options. Both unions have recently benefited from significant cash injections following their respective private takeovers.
